Skip to main content

Lentil Taco Filling

A tasty alternative to meat or fish tacos that provides a filling rich in flavor.
Bowl of seasoned lentils with vegetables garnished with cilantro.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Makes: 2 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

2 teaspoons vegetable oil
½ cup chopped onion
½ cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
1 clove garlic, minced or ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
½ cup dried lentils, rinsed
4 ½ teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon oregano (optional)
1 ¼ cups low-sodium broth (any flavor)
½ teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. Rinse or scrub fresh vegetables under running water before preparing.

  3. In a large skillet, heat oil on medium. Add the onion, bell pepper and garlic. Sauté until tender, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add the lentils, chili powder, cumin and oregano, if desired. Cook and stir for 1 minute.
  5. Add broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover the skillet and simmer until the lentils are tender, about 20 to 30 minutes for brown lentils. Add water if necessary to keep the lentils just covered with liquid.
  6. Uncover the skillet and cook until the mixture thickens and most of the water is gone, about 5 to 10 minutes. Add salt, if desired.
  7. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Use for tacos, wraps or salad.
  • Different types of lentils have different cooking times. Check the package or bulk bin for how long to cook the type you buy.

Comments

This recipe is a perfect intro recipe to lentils for someone just starting to use lentils. This taco filling gives off such a great flavor. This was a great vegetarian taco filling option. This recipe also pairs well with the Food Hero Pico De Gallo salsa recipe!

A great vegetarian dish to have for several nights of varied uses.

A great way to use lentils and super low cost dinner!  Was easy too, and i got it cooking first and then had the perfect amout of time to prep the rest of the meal - we made tostadas.  I put a layer of lentils down on the tostada first and then topped with beans and cheese and veggie, and the kids ate every bite...

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Panama’s Tropical Bounty Smoothie
glass of Panama's Tropical Bounty Smoothie

Panama’s Tropical Bounty Smoothie

Enjoy a creamy and refreshing smoothie using mango, banana, lime juice and the milk of your choice.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Tuna Cabbage Salad
Tuna Cabbage Salad served on slices of toast.

Tuna Cabbage Salad

Light and healthy salad with shredded cabbage and a creamy dressing.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Veggie Patties
Plate of vegetable and potato patties served with a creamy sauce and microgreens on top.

Veggie Patties

Quick 30-minute meal with carrots, zucchini and potatoes. Works well with most any vegetables and seasonings.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
10 minutes
Makes:
14 patties
Zucchini Stir-Fry
Small bowl with a tender zucchini and vegetable mix.

Zucchini Stir-Fry

Fast veggie stir-fry with lots of umami flavor. Ready in less than 30 minutes!
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
10 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Pomegranate Smoothie
glasses of Pomegranate Smoothie

Pomegranate Smoothie

This beautiful smoothie combines sparkling pomegranate seeds with other fruits and vegetables for a nutritious drink.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
3 cups
Roasted Beets
Baking sheet with golden and red beets.

Roasted Beets

A colorful and earthy side dish that only uses 4 ingredients.
Prepare:
5 to 10 minutes
Cook:
45 to 60 minutes
Makes:
4 Servings